I'm Sioux Roslawski and this is my blog about writing, dogs, grown-up children, menopause, the joy of a marvelous book, classroom teaching in general, and specifically, the teaching of writing. You can email me at sroslawski(at)yahoo(dot)com.

The Pyrenees---Southern France

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

A Bunch of Hooey

If I was around my friends, I would not use the word "hooey," but since this is being viewed by the public, I will put my public face on and attach my public duct tape.

I was so looking foward to the "documentary" Waiting for Superman when I heard about it six months ago. I wanted to be inspired, to hear success stories. Unfortunately, it is just another instance of teacher-bashing (from what I have seen).

photo by Chris Pino

From what I have heard, no public school success stories are highlighted. Did you know that charter schools can kick a student out if they are disruptive/out of control/disrespectful? Public schools must educate all the students in their enrollment area. We take the tired...the poor...the wretched refuse yearning to breathe free (of boundaries)...

In the movie, it claims that tenure comes after two years. That is not the case. In my district, it comes after 4 years (or 5; it's been so long ago, I forget which).

If you want to read a barbed (and honest) blog about this "shock-umentary" you should check out the Dream Teacher. Her post on 9/26 is brilliant!